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proofed items, choose those with coatings made from polyurethane or polyester.


Phthalates. A 2007 report by the NRDC notes that 12 out of 14 common brands of household air fresheners and room sprays contain phthalates, which people regularly inhale primarily because these chemicals prolong the time that prod- ucts maintain their fragrance. In studies conducted by the World Health Organi- zation, researchers concluded that con- sistent exposure to phthalates could in- crease the risks for endocrine, reproduc- tive and developmental problems. The majority of synthetic air fresheners were found to also emit significant amounts of terpene, a volatile organic compound (VOC) that can react with naturally oc- curring ozone to create formaldehyde. Healthier choices: Put boxes of baking soda in cabinets to absorb odors and scent interiors with all-natural oils and potpourri.


Chlorine. According to the American Lung Association, most conventional cleaning products include some chlo- rine, with large concentrations in bleach.


“Allergies, asthma, lung cancer and heart problems have all been linked to poor indoor air quality.”


~ U.S. EPA


Inhalation of chlorine can irritate the respiratory system; prolonged exposure can lead to lung disease and asthma. Healthier choices: Purchase chlo- rine-free cleaning products, especially chlorine-free bleach. Or make inexpen- sive solutions of white, distilled vinegar mixed with a little lemon for scent for a multipurpose, multi-surface cleaner; try baking soda as a scrubbing powder.


Volatile organic compounds. VOCs are emitted as harmful gases by a wide array of products including paints, lac- quers and paint strippers; cleaning sup- plies; pesticides; carpets and furnishings; office copiers and printers, correction fluids and carbonless copy paper; plus graphics and craft materials that include


glues and adhesives, permanent mark- ers and photographic solutions. The EPA calculates that, “Concentrations of many VOCs are consistently higher [up to 10 times] indoors than outdoors.” Healthier choices: Look for


VOC-free products and consider using organic clay paint, which has the added benefit of acting as an absorbent of toxic gases.


Most people spend up to 90 per- cent of their time indoors, where the air quality can be two to five times (and even up to 100 times) more polluted than the air we breathe outside, accord- ing to the EPA. “A simple solution is to open windows for a portion of each day or night to let in fresh air,” advises Loui. Making these choices enables us to pro- tect ourselves better at home.


Gail Griswold-Elwyn is founding president of Rethink Renovations, of St. Louis, MO, which offers green design/build and construction services, including cabinetry and furniture that minimize environmental impact. Connect at 314-323-8845 or RethinkRenovations.com.


natural awakenings


April 2013


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